Hundreds of youths in Aiyetoro Gbede, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, on Monday staged a protest over what they described as a politically motivated attempt to undermine the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The demonstrators, drawn from various youth and civil society groups, marched through major streets of the community, expressing strong support for the independence of the electoral body and confidence in Joash Ojo Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Chairman of INEC.
Carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Enemies of Fairness, Beware!” and “Fair Elections Start with Amupitan,” the protesters claimed that recent allegations circulating on social media were part of a broader attempt to discredit the electoral system.
The protest featured a large procession of youths on motorcycles and on foot, attracting attention from residents as participants chanted solidarity songs and called for the protection of democratic institutions.
Speaking during the demonstration, a youth leader identified as Segun said the group would resist any attempt to “blackmail” or weaken the Commission.
“We are here to send a clear message: the sanctity of INEC must be preserved.
Prof. Amupitan is a man of integrity and a proud son of this land. Any attempt to malign his character or remove him unjustly is an attack on democracy,” he said.
The protest comes amid ongoing national debates over the appointment of new INEC National Commissioners, with some civil society organisations and opposition figures raising concerns about alleged political affiliations of certain nominees.
However, the Kogi youths dismissed the allegations as “sponsored propaganda,” insisting that Amupitan’s professional record and legal expertise position him to strengthen the credibility of the Commission and ensure transparent electoral processes.
Meanwhile, INEC has rejected calls for the removal of its chairman, describing such demands as unconstitutional and a threat to its independence.
In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, Adedayo Oketola, the Commission emphasised that its leadership is governed strictly by constitutional provisions, particularly Section 157 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which outlines procedures for appointment and removal.
INEC stated that its actions, including compliance with court rulings and decisions on party matters, are guided by the rule of law and aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic framework.
The Commission also dismissed claims of partisan bias, noting that its recognition of multiple political parties and commitment to transparency contradict allegations of a one-party agenda.
Reaffirming its stance, INEC said it remains focused on delivering free, fair, and credible elections and will not be distracted by what it described as unfounded allegations.
The development comes ahead of key off cycle governorship elections in Ekiti State and Osun State later in the year, as stakeholders continue to scrutinise the Commission’s leadership and activities.